ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
The locus of control (LC) of pain is the perception of the individual about pain control. The investigation of the relationship between LC, dependence and depression in elderly patients is of great importance given the high prevalence of chronic diseases among this population. The objective of this study was to analyze the association between LC of pain in elderly patients and the level of dependence and prevalence of depression.
METHODS:
Ninety-one elderly individuals, aged over 60 years, were selected from the Association of Retirees, Pensioners, and Elderly of Lavras and Region (AAPIL) and all participants underwent a comprehensive anamnesis to effectively describe and characterize the sample. The Health Locus of Control Multidimensional Scale was used to assess perception of pain, the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale was used to determine the prevalence of depression, and Katz Index to evaluate functional capacity. Chi-square test was used to analyze nominal variables with a 95% level of significance.
RESULTS:
The majority of the elderly participants (83.5%) reported experiencing chronic pain, while 85.7% had no suspected depression. Internal control was the most prevalent type of LC among participants, and there was no significant relationship between LC of pain and depression.
CONCLUSION:
Findings suggest that the type of LC of pain reported by the elderly participants in this study does not significantly interfere with the likelihood of depression. These results contribute to the understanding of the relationship between LC, dependence, and depression among senior patients and may inform interventions to improve their quality of life.
Keywords:
Depression; Elderly; Pain
HIGHLIGHTS
Cross-sectional study that reflects the psychosocial profile associated with the locus of control of pain in elderly individuals.
Presentation of relevant results regarding the global problem of high prevalence of chronic pain in the elderly
Evidence that draws attention to the importance of a comprehensive assessment of elderly people.